Set up fundamentals and swing technique can help your game, but let’s not forget about the mental aspect. More specifically, the mental approach to each shot. I find that the success of my shot typically depends on my confidence over the ball. In my search to quantify this confidence level I created a question that can be answered after every shot. By doing this you will condition your mind to focus on what to accomplish rather than what to avoid.
How certain were you with what you were trying to accomplish?
You need to answer this question after every golf shot. So, here’s what you do. Scale your certainty level from 1 – 10. 1 being the lowest – you only had negative thoughts, you were confused, and completely uncertain where the ball should go. 10 being the highest – you only had positive thoughts, you were fully aware of the situation, and completely certain where the ball should go. After each shot rate your certainty level. Write down the score next to your actual score. When you finish the round take some time and look at your scorecard. On each hole see the certainty score and how it relates to your actual score. I promise you will find a correlation between high certainty level and better performance, or, low certainty level and poor performance.
Here’s the realization – the pre shot routine is paramount for organizing your mind and preparation for each shot. It’s critical to be absolutely clear in your mind what you are trying to accomplish before you set up to swing. Visualize the ball flight – see it in your mind’s eye. You have to be crystal clear – this will dramatically improve your confidence. The final step is execution, but you will only see positive results only when you are absolutely certain over the ball.
Long and Straight,
Adam
